Mouthwash isn't just for the mouth. Here are 10 nifty other uses

Mouthwash gives you a fresh, clean feeling. It's an essential part of your oral healthcare routine. But did you know it can be much more than a quick rinse?

Our 10 unusual uses for mouthwash may seem surprising, but this versatile product is more than just a fresh minty feeling. The popular brand Listerine was created as a surgical antiseptic. Many types of mouthwash contain alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, giving them cleaning and disinfecting capabilities.

Sometimes you just don't have time for a shower. Maybe you need to freshen up a bit after grabbing a quick workout.Remedy Daily recommends wiping a cotton ball moistened with mouthwash over your armpit to eliminate odor and kill bacteria. You can create an emergency refresher kit by filling a small plastic bag with a travel size mouthwash and several cotton balls.

2. Skip the professional pedicureYou can have soft feet without an expensive trip to the nail salon. The Indian Spot guides you step-by-step through creating a safe and effective solution to gently remove rough spots and calluses. All you need is Listerine, apple cider vinegar, water, and a little time to soak.

3. Repel bugs safelyInstead of using harsh chemicals, create a safe mosquito repellent by pouring a minty mouthwash into a spray bottle. Simply spritz on for bug-free playtime outdoors. Mint Juleps 'n Muddin' points out that you may need to reapply the mouthwash version more often than traditional bug spray. She also advises you to avoid whitening mouthwashes -- they may whiten your clothing.

4. Eliminate antsThe ants keep marching on and on -- unless you use this creative solution to kill and repel them from your home. Frugal & Thrifty recommends mixing mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap together in equal parts. Spray it on ant-infested areas and leave it to soak for up to 15 minutes. Wipe up the remaining spray and any ants. The mixture is safe for use in homes with children and pets.

5. Reduce washing machine odorsWashing machines may get your clothes clean, but they get dirty in the process. From musty smells trapped in seals to general grime around the edges, a dirty washing machine won't perform at it's best. Try using 1/2 cup antiseptic mouthwash in an empty load cycle to clean and disinfect your washer.

6. Disinfect clothes safelyMany people prefer not to use bleach or other harsh chemicals in their laundry, but wonder if their natural products are truly getting their clothes clean. Using 1 cup of mouthwash in a load of dirty clothes helps disinfect and eliminate harmful bacteria from the clothing. Adam Dachis of LifeHacker suggests you choose an antiseptic mouthwash without artificial coloring.

7. Calm the itchThe cooling sensation of your antiseptic mouthwash can provide relief from the itch associated with bug bites and rashes. According to DIY Natural, the alcohol in mouthwash may help heal the rash by helping to dry it out. Simply use a cotton ball to dab it on the affected area as needed.

8. Clean the toiletYou don't need a specialty cleaner under your bathroom sink to get your toilet clean and white. Pour approximately 1 cup of mouthwash into the toilet bowl and let it work its magic for approximately 30 minutes. Nora Dunn of Wise Bread says all you need is a quick swipe of the toilet brush and your toilet will sparkle.

9. Keep flowers looking freshCut flowers can often wilt quickly. Real Simple points out that the antiseptic qualities of mouthwash may reduce the bacteria present and help extend the life of your bouquet. While results are mixed, it costs you very little to pour a capful of mouthwash into the vase before arranging your flowers.

10. Soak your toothbrushYour toothbrush cleans your teeth, but how often do you clean your toothbrush? Create an inexpensive toothbrush cleaner with the help of Instructables. Just pour enough mouthwash to cover the head of your toothbrush into a jar. Soak the toothbrush overnight and wake up to a fresh toothbrush.